Driver Configuration: 1 × 14mm Planar Magnetic Driver, 1 × 10mm Dynamic Driver, 1 × Balanced Armature Driver
Sound Signature: L-Shaped, Warm, Bass-Forward
Tonality: Rich, Dense, Smooth
Best For: Hip-Hop, R&B, Pop, Electronic, Rock
Szalayi II is a clear evolution of the original Szalayi rather than a complete redesign of its sound.
The biggest change is in the bass. The original Szalayi was already known for its rich and substantial low end, but Szalayi II pushes this character further, with greater emphasis on the deepest sub-bass and a noticeably stronger sense of authority. Oriolus specifically focused on the 20–50Hz region, and that is easy to hear: bass extends deeper, carries more physical weight, and gives the entire presentation a larger foundation.
As a result, Szalayi II sounds more distinctly L-shaped than the original. The bass takes a more dominant role, but vocals remain surprisingly clear and well separated. A slight increase around 1kHz helps keep voices present, while the controlled 3–5kHz region prevents the upper mids from becoming aggressive or fatiguing.
Compared directly with the original Szalayi, the II feels fuller, deeper, and more authoritative. The OG is slightly more balanced, while Szalayi II commits more strongly to the bass-forward identity that made Szalayi unique in the first place.
For another point of reference, Quill Acoustics Karma takes a more complete and technically capable approach. Karma has stronger bass impact, better overall resolution, more natural treble extension, and noticeably more breathing room through the upper frequencies. Its presentation feels more open and balanced from bass to treble, while Szalayi II remains denser, warmer, and more specialized.
That difference is what makes Szalayi II interesting.
Szalayi II FR:
Szalayi II V.S. Szalayi OG
Szalayi II vs OG vs Karma
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TXN Diamond First Impressions